SIPs vs Stick

Make the Switch to SIPs Before You Have To

The comparison of SIPs to traditional stick-framing methods is simple, and the state of California has recognized it in a state wide law. Their Title 24 legislation, implements new “Building Energy Efficiency Standards” that requires new construction projects (residential and commercial) must install a list of mandatory energy efficiency measures in effort to meet energy efficiency requirements. The most notable requirement is earmarked for 2030, when all new construction will be required to be net-zero energy structures (meaning they generate their own energy, taking none from the grid). Since California is an innovator in energy efficiency, it is very likely that other states will soon follow their lead.

Since government agencies recognize the significant difference in high performance framing methods like SIPs, shouldn’t you? Here is a summary of why SIPs are superior to standard 2×6 R19 construction.

Breaking it Down

A proven higher efficiency product (SIPs) may cost more, but they help the overall project cost less in most cases. A superior project for the same or less total project cost? Why wouldn’t you give it a try? Read on, and we’re sure you’ll agree its worth the switch. Our Field Representatives and large Distributor Network are ready to help you on your jobsite so you can see why SIPs really are the future of high performance framing.

With all of these project factors considered SIPs are regularly less expensive than 2×6 framed construction:

Benefit

2×6 R19 Construction

SIPS Construction

Energy Efficiency

Baseline

Up to 48% more efficient

Fire Resistance

Sticks require one layer of 5/8″ drywall to meet an hourly wall.

A one hour fire wall is achieved with a minimum 2 layers of 5/8″ drywall each side of the wall. 4 layers on each side will achieve a 2 hour wall.

R-Value

The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has studied and tested the performance of entire wall assemblies in large sections. The resulting whole-wall R-value data reveals that a 4.5″ SIP wall rated at R-14 outperformed a 2″x6″ wall with R-19 fiberglass insulation.

Premier SIPs have a 20 year R-Value warranty:

4″ wall 15.0 – 16.0 R-Value

6″ wall 23.0 – 24.0 R-Value

8″ wall 30.0 – 31.0 R-Value

10″ wall 38.0 – 39.0 R-Value

12″ wall 46.0 – 47.0 R-Value

Strength

Baseline

20-30% Stronger – The structural characteristics of SIPs are similar to that of a steel I-Beam. The OSB skins act as the flange of the I-beam, while the rigid foam core provides the web. This design gives SIPs an advantage at handling in plane compressive loads. View Premier SIPS Load Charts. SIPs can be engineered for most applications.

Seismic

Yes, tie downs and additional material/ labor costs required

Yes, additional tie downs may be required depending on design methods

Waste Created

Baseline

30% less salvageable structural lumber sent to landfills over stick. The EPA estimates that every year we send to landfills a BILLION board feet of “salvageable, structural” lumber. Enough to build more than 62,000 average size new American homes. Premier SIPS are also recyclable and made with a significant amount of recycled content.

The tightness of the SIP building envelope prevents air from gaining access to the interior of the home except in controlled amounts. A controlled indoor environment is both healthy and comfortable. Humidity can be controlled more easily in a SIP home resulting in a home that is more comfortable for occupants and less prone to mold growth and dust mites.

The EPA says that 19% of all American households have at least one member with asthma. They go on to say that four out of ten (40%) of children born in America today will develop some type of respiratory ailment. SIPs build healthier homes and buildings.

For more than 30 years SIPs have the proven performance over stick framing. Offering a sound warranty is one thing you’ll see with SIPs, that you most often won’t find with 2×6 construction.

As the nation’s largest and one of the oldest manufacturers, Premier has the track record and experience to manufacture you a superior product. Our vision and our 20 year warranty helps to ensure your SIPs structure is ready to stand the test of time.

Did You Know…

Premier has consultants throughout North America, more than any other SIPS manufacturer.

About Premier SIPs

Since the 1970’s Premier SIPs have been manufactured by Premier Building Systems. An incredible framing alternative to traditional dimensional lumber framed structures. Builders are saving construction time and money. Architects are gaining design flexibility and environmental product benefits. While Building Owners have superior structures with reduced utility costs. As a leader in the SIPs industry, Premier SIPs is proud to be at the forefront of efficient building systems.